Odds and ends
George Kittle still in waiting
The long-anticipated Kittle extension is still pending. San Francisco has made it clear they’re ready to overhaul the tight end market to lock up the All-Pro long-term, but NFL Media’s Mike Silver reported in early August that the two sides are still experiencing a disconnect. There’s speculation Kittle wants to be paid like a top wide receiver. The difference between the 10th highest-paid receiver and the highest-paid tight end is about $6 million per year. Kittle is on the final year of his rookie contract and would be a free agent this offseason if he doesn’t come to an agreement with San Francisco.
Deebo Samuel injured
Samuel suffered a Jones fracture in his left foot during a player-organized workout in the offseason. His original timeline was 12-16 weeks, which could mean he misses the first part of the season. San Francisco’s confidence in that timeline will determine whether he starts the season on the PUP list or on the active roster.
Richie James Jr. injured
James was also hurt in an offseason workout. He injured his hand and is on the active/Non-Football injury list. He’s supposed to return some time in August where he’ll compete for a roster spot. James also spent time on the NFL’s reserve/COVID-19 list before reverting to the NFI.
Visit with Ziggy Ansah
Ziggy Ansah took a physical with the 49ers around the same time the team had Dion Jordan in for a visit. Ansah didn’t wind up signing, but he passed his physical according to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport and could be on their radar if they need another DE later in camp.
Kyle Shanahan extension
The 49ers extended Shanahan through the 2025 season and made him one of the highest-paid coaches in the league following the team’s run to Super Bowl LIV. Shanahan originally signed a six-year deal. That was torn up and replaced with his new long-term contract.
John Lynch extension
While Lynch was already among the NFL’s highest-paid GMs, he earned a new five-year deal that runs through the 2024 season. No reason was given for why it doesn’t match up with Shanahan’s like their initial contracts did, but both were compensated for their roles in returning the 49ers to prominence.
Jordan Reed on the way
Lynch said in a pre-season press conference that the 49ers had agreed to terms on a deal with the former Pro Bowl tight end, but Reed’s signing has yet to be officially announced. The oft-injured tight end missed last season with his seventh concussion, but he’s hoping to return to the field in 2020. He’s one of the NFL’s best receiving tight ends when he’s healthy.